As in other wine-producing regions of the world, new sparkling wines made using ancestral methods are also on the rise in Spain, highlighting the freshest, liveliest, and most natural expression of the grape.
Pét-Nat—short for pétillant naturel—is a natural sparkling wine made with the least possible intervention. No ingredients are added during the process, and it is not filtered at the end.
This type of wine is bottled while it is still in full fermentation and sealed with a crown cap, which traps a small amount of carbon dioxide and thus generates the bubbles. The French call this technique of bottling the wine during its first fermentation the méthode ancestrale, a method that is actually older than other more complex sparkling winemaking techniques.
As an added advantage, since no extra ingredients are incorporated, Pét-Nats tend to have less alcohol and lower sugar content than other sparkling wines. However, with no intervention after bottling, they can be a bit less predictable in terms of flavor and carbonation level. Some may be slightly sweet when opened, due to residual natural sugars that have not yet finished fermenting.
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Main Characteristics
- Winemaking Method: Pét-nat is bottled before the alcoholic fermentation is complete. Inside the bottle, fermentation continues, trapping the carbon dioxide (CO₂) produced by the yeast, which creates the characteristic fizziness. Unlike the traditional method (like that of Champagne), in the ancestral method, there is only one fermentation and no extra sugar or yeast is added.
- Style and Presentation: Pét-nats can be white, rosé, red, or even orange, and they usually have a low to moderate alcohol content. They are not filtered, so they often contain sediment and may have a cloudy appearance. Most are sealed with a crown cap, similar to those on beer bottles.
- Flavor and Profile: These are fresh, lively wines with light bubbles and a very direct expression of the grape and terroir. The flavor can vary greatly depending on the grape variety and producer, but they usually have fruity notes, a marked acidity, and a “wild” or rustic character.
- Natural Production: Pét-nats are part of the natural wine movement, with minimal intervention in the winery and the use of native yeasts. This makes them unique wines, where each bottle can be a different experience.
Differences from Other Sparkling Wines
| Characteristic | Pét-nat (Ancestral Method) | Champagne/Cava (Traditional Method) |
|---|---|---|
| Number of fermentations | One (continues in the bottle) | Two (second in the bottle) |
| Addition of sugar/yeast | No | Yes |
| Filtering | No | Yes |
| Closure | Crown cap | Cork |
| Bubble Level | Slightly sparkling | More bubbles, persistent foam |
Popularity and Context
The rise of pét-nat wines is a response to the growing interest in natural and minimal-intervention wines. Their unpredictable and fun character—each bottle can be a surprise—has made them a trend among sommeliers, wine lovers, and consumers looking for authentic and different experiences. In summary, pét-nat wines are natural, fresh, and characterful sparkling wines, made with ancestral techniques and minimal intervention, aiming to capture the essence of the grape and the place where it is grown.
- Wikipedia: Ancestral method
- Food & Wine: What Exactly Is a Pét-Nat?
- The Guardian: Pet nat nation: UK sparkling wine made the old way hits the high street